Charles M. Swoboda Elected to the Marquette Board of Trustees Released: Jan. 10, 2005 Charles M. Swoboda, a 1989 graduate of the Marquette University College of Engineering, has been elected to the Marquette University Board of Trustees. Mr. Swoboda is president and CEO of Cree Inc., a semiconductor company headquartered in Durham, N.C. Cree employs more than 1,300 individuals worldwide and has annual revenues of more than $300 million.  Cree was recognized by Forbes as one of the 200 Best Small Companies for 2004 and by North Carolina Business Magazine as North Carolina 's High Tech Company of the Year in 2003. Swoboda joined Cree in 1993 and has served as CEO since 2001, as a member of the board of directors since 2000, and as president since January 1999.  He received the Spirit of Marquette Award earlier this year, serves on the College of Engineering Dean's Advisory Council, and is a member of the 1881 Society of the Marquette University President's Council. "I am honored by the opportunity to serve my alma mater in a role as member of the Board of Trustees.  Marquette 's commitment to serving its students, alumni and community is stronger than ever and I look forward to helping Marquette continue that mission,” said Swoboda. Swoboda is 1 of 37 members of Marquette 's Board of Trustees.   His term on the board began at the time of his election.   Office of Public Affairs Contacts Brigid O'Brien Miller Director of University Communication Phone: (414) 288-7445 Send e-mail Anne Broeker Sr. Media Relations Specialist Phone: (414) 288-0286 Send e-mail